Two-layer particle filter for multiple target detection and tracking

This paper deals with the detection and tracking of an unknown number of targets using a Bayesian hierarchical model with target labels. To approximate the posterior probability density function, we develop a two-layer particle filter. One deals with track initiation, and the other with track maintenance. In addition, the parallel partition method is proposed to sample the states of the surviving targets

El tiempo, la lógica y la matemática del mundo de las finanzas

En este trabajo nos proponemos analizar las interrelaciones epistemológicas entre las ciencias formales, las ciencias de las finanzas y las prácticas financieras Con él no pretendemos agotar el vastísimo y complejo universo de las finanzas Sólo queremos mostrar la injerencia de la matemática pura, la lógica formal y una concepción formalista del tiempo en alguna pequeña, aunque relevante esfera de ese universo

Integer Polynomial Optimization in Fixed Dimension

We classify, according to their computational complexity, integer optimization problems whose constraints and objective functions are polynomials with integer coefficients and the number of variables is fixed. For the optimization of an integer polynomial over the lattice points of a convex polytope, we show an algorithm to compute lower and upper bounds for the optimal value. For polynomials that are non-negative over the polytope, these sequences of bounds lead to a fully polynomial-time approximation scheme for the optimization problem.Comment: In this revised version we include a stronger complexity bound on our algorithm. Our algorithm is in fact an FPTAS (fully polynomial-time approximation scheme) to maximize a non-negative integer polynomial over the lattice points of a polytop

A Spitzer view of protoplanetary disks in the gamma Velorum cluster

We present new Spitzer Space Telescope observations of stars in the young ~5 Myr gamma Velorum stellar cluster. Combining optical and 2MASS photometry, we have selected 579 stars as candidate members of the cluster. With the addition of the Spitzer mid-infrared data, we have identified 5 debris disks around A-type stars, and 5-6 debris disks around solar-type stars, indicating that the strong radiation field in the cluster does not completely suppress the production of planetesimals in the disks of cluster members. However, we find some evidence that the frequency of circumstellar primordial disks is lower, and the IR flux excesses are smaller than for disks around stellar populations with similar ages. This could be evidence for a relatively fast dissipation of circumstellar dust by the strong radiation field from the highest mass star(s) in the cluster. Another possibility is that gamma Velorum stellar cluster is slightly older than reported ages and the the low frequency of primordial disks reflects the fast disk dissipation observed at ~5 Myr.Comment: Accepted for publication in the Astrophysical Journal: 32 pages; 11 Figure

Thermal equilibrium and statistical thermometers in special relativity

There is an intense debate in the recent literature about the correct generalization of Maxwell's velocity distribution in special relativity. The most frequently discussed candidate distributions include the Juettner function as well as modifications thereof. Here, we report results from fully relativistic one-dimensional (1D) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations that resolve the ambiguity. The numerical evidence unequivocally favors the Juettner distribution. Moreover, our simulations illustrate that the concept of 'thermal equilibrium' extends naturally to special relativity only if a many-particle system is spatially confined. They make evident that 'temperature' can be statistically defined and measured in an observer frame independent way.Comment: version accepted for publication (5 pages), part of the introduction modified, new figures, additional reference

Trispyrazolylborate Ligands Supported on Vinyl Addition Polynorbornenes and Their Copper Derivatives as Recyclable Catalysts

Polynorbornenes prepared by vinyl addition poly- merization and bearing pendant alkenyl groups serve as skeletons to support trispyrazolylborate ligands (Tpx) built at those alkenyl sites. Reaction with CuI in acetonitrile led to VA-PNB–TpxCu(NCMe) (VA-PBN = vinyl addition polynorbor- nene) with a 0.8–1.4 mmol incorporation of Cu per gram of polymer. The presence of tetracoordinated copper(I) ions was been assessed by FTIR studies on the corresponding VA-PNB-TpxCu(CO) adducts, in agreement with those on discrete TpxCu(CO). The new materials were employed as heteroge- neous catalysts in several carbene- and nitrene-transfer reac- tions, showing a behavior similar to that of the homogene- ous counterparts but also being recycled several times main- taining a high degree of activity and selectivity. This is the first example of supported Tpx ligands onto polymeric sup- ports with catalytic applications.MINECO (CTQ2017-82893-C2-1-R, CTQ2016-80913-P and Red Intecat CTQ2016-81923-REDC)Junta de Castilla y León (VA051P17, VA062G18)European Union (CHAOS COST ACTION CA-15106)

Differential activity of Drosophila Hox genes induces myosin expression and can maintain compartment boundaries

Compartments are units of cell lineage that subdivide territories with different developmental potential. In Drosophila, the wing and haltere discs are subdivided into anterior and posterior (A/P) compartments, which require the activity of Hedgehog, and into dorsal and ventral (D/V) compartments, needing Notch signaling. There is enrichment in actomyosin proteins at the compartment boundaries, suggesting a role for these proteins in their maintenance. Compartments also develop in the mouse hindbrain rhombomeres, which are characterized by the expression of different Hox genes, a group of genes specifying different structures along their main axis of bilaterians. We show here that the Drosophila Hox gene Ultrabithorax can maintain the A/P and D/V compartment boundaries when Hedgehog or Notch signaling is compromised, and that the interaction of cells with and without Ultrabithorax expression induces high levels of non-muscle myosin II. In the absence of Ultrabithorax there is occasional mixing of cells from different segments. We also show a similar role in cell segregation for the Abdominal-B Hox gene. Our results suggest that the juxtaposition of cells with different Hox gene expression leads to their sorting out, probably through the accumulation of non-muscle myosin II at the boundary of the different cell territories. The increase in myosin expression seems to be a general mechanism used by Hox genes or signaling pathways to maintain the segregation of different groups of cells.Peer Reviewe